Pet Food Banks.
With the cost of living on the rise, many more people are turning to food banks to feed themselves – and their pets. Charitable organisations across the UK provide free food to pet owners facing financial hardship. Read on to find out how you can find a pet food bank – or where to make donations.
In recent years, many people have found themselves having to stretch their finances further and further. The number of food parcels distributed by the Trussell Trust in 2024/25 were 2.9 million.
While this is a reduction from 3.1 million in the previous year(s), food banks continue to supply emergency food parcels to people experiencing financial difficulties. In addition, they say, they are seeing a long term trend of severe hardship.
For people with pets to feed as well, this can be an added financial pressure. Many might argue, people shouldn’t have pets if they can’t afford them. However, should we really be denying some folk the pleasure and comfort pets bring, just because circumstances may have changed?
In the current economic climate, people are already faced with the prospect of giving up much loved pets. This is often because landlords won’t accept them. As people are forced to move due to rising housing costs, many are finding they are unable to take their beloved animals with them. None of this seems fair.
With so many more people owning pets, there has been a rise in pet food bank usage too – and it’s a much needed resource for many people.
What is a pet food bank?
Pet food banks are run by charitable organisations and the aim is to ensure pets don’t go hungry. Additionally, it could mean the difference between someone keeping their pet, or having to give them up for adoption.
Pet food banks can, therefore, increase animal welfare and reduce the burden on animal shelters. Of course, it also means people can keep their much-loved pets, at a time when they are probably of most comfort to someone.
How do pet food banks operate?
Pet food banks rely completely on donations, as well as volunteer workers who give their time to run them. Many large charities such as the RSPCA and the Blue Cross run food banks. Some organisations have designated pick-up points and some are connected to human food banks.
Some organisations have eligibility requirements in place. This means you may need a voucher from your local authority, or housing provider. Others provide food on trust and will hand out donations to anyone attending who says they are in need.
However, it’s important not to take from food banks if you are able to feed your pet. Otherwise, this takes away from those who are genuinely struggling to provide food for their pet.
How to find a pet food bank.
Many charities partner up with other organisations, such as human food banks and other community groups. The RSPCA has a pet food bank map. The Blue Cross also have a food bank map which you can access via their website.
Donations to pet food banks.
According to the Blue Cross you can make donations to any Pets at Home store throughout the UK. You can also drop donations off at Blue Cross centres, supermarkets and re-homing centres.
Donations are gratefully accepted at participating venues and, as well as food, you can donate other things that may be of use such as, lightly used (clean) dog toys, treats and grooming products.
Final thoughts.
If you are ever finding things difficult there is help and support at hand. If you are lucky enough to be able to spare donations and pay it forward, it could really make the difference to a pet owner less fortunate, who may be devastated at the prospect of having to give up a much loved pet.
